May Cocktails Inspired by the Kentucky Derby

Cocktails by SKY Armory & The Tasting Room @ SKY Armory

As we gallop into May with the Kentucky Derby this weekend, it’s the perfect excuse to shake up some fresh, spring-inspired cocktails. Whether you're throwing a Derby-themed party at home, planning an event or simply looking for signature drink ideas for your wedding at SKY Armory, these cocktails bring a festive Southern flair with every sip. From timeless classics to fresh, herbaceous twists, these drinks are easy to make and a beautiful way to elevate your celebration. And hey, you might just find your new favorite cocktail!

Kentucky Whiskey Smash

Ingredients: Bourbon, lemon wedges, mint, simple syrup

Instructions: Muddle lemon and mint with syrup, shake with bourbon and ice, strain into a rocks glass, garnish with mint. Crisp and citrusy with bright, fresh flavor.

Are you a New Yorker through and through? Enjoy it New York style . . .

For a variation of this drink, order the NY Sour at The Tasting Room @ SKY Armory! It's pretty much the same thing, just replace the bourbon with a NY whiskey and leave out the mint.

Classic Mint Julep

Ingredients: Bourbon, fresh mint, simple syrup, crushed ice

Instructions: Muddle mint with syrup in a julep cup, add bourbon and crushed ice, stir, and garnish with a mint sprig. A Kentucky Derby staple — bold, minty, and refreshing.

Gin Basil Smash

Ingredients: Gin, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, simple syrup

Instructions: Muddle basil with lemon juice and syrup, shake with gin and ice, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with basil. Herbaceous and vibrant with garden-fresh appeal.

Pomegranate Julep

Ingredients: Bourbon, pomegranate juice, mint syrup, crushed ice

Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a julep cup, garnish with pomegranate seeds and mint. Fruity and colorful with a modern twist.

Low-Proof Mint Julep

Ingredients: Cynar (Italian amaro), mint, simple syrup, crushed ice

Instructions: Build in a julep cup like the classic, swapping bourbon for Cynar. Garnish with mint.Light and slightly bitter for long, leisurely sipping.

Boulevardier Julep

Ingredients: Bourbon, Campari, sweet vermouth, mint

Instructions: Stir with crushed ice in a julep cup, garnish with mint and orange peel. For fans of bold, bitter-forward cocktails with complexity.

Hosting at SKY Armory?

If you're planning your wedding or special event at SKY Armory, these Kentucky Derby-inspired cocktails can be customized as signature drinks for your bar. From classic bourbon to botanical gin, our team will help you select a cocktail that reflects your style and elevates your celebration.

Inspired by Wine Enthusiast’s 13 Kentucky Derby Cocktails.